It’s extremely rare to see such a low turnout so early for a show that packs such incredible heat in it’s lineup. As the weekend was set to kick off, BRIC (via it’s Celebrate Brooklyn! initiative) invited its audience to partake in yet another one of its free shows last Friday; this particular evening, highlighting some extremely talented up-and-comers on the hip-hop scene (most notably, Angel Haze and Big K.R.I.T.). All things considered, it truly begged the question, where is everybody?

The D.R.E.A.M. Ring took stage first (to some fanfare). The group, whose faces were strewn with smiles, brought a comprehensive set of mechanical dance moves with them–as well as some interesting theatrics. Despite their efforts, they were fairly inept at bringing any sense of energy to their audience or even a connection to them.

Angel Haze followed and so did a slightly larger crowd (although sadly no where near what a performer of her talents merits). Haze, who played mostly new material in promotion of her upcoming studio release, was desperate for more audience energy. Despite multiple pleas, the crowd never seemed to match Haze’s energy–as she floated and bounced her way across the stage (eventually ending up in the crowd for the final few songs of her set). Immersed in the crowd she seemed more at home and her fans seemed more willing to give her the energy she so intently sought.

Big K.R.I.T. was last to take stage to some credible hype (and a seemingly more energized crowd). His stage presence matches some of the more established artists in the field and his confidence emanates as he flashes smirks to select audience members. The packed front of house allowed Big K.R.I.T. to play on these charms, while the (still largely empty) back of house gave few nods here and there (but no real homage to the talent onstage–more acting as passive spectators in a sport that is fueled by audience participation).

At the risk of sounding scornful, the only major disappointment of the evening was in Brooklyn and the greater Manhattan area for not making a better effort to attend this epic Celebrate Brooklyn! showcase. BRIC’s incredible generosity largely fell of deaf ears (outside of those who occupied the Bandshells front of house). Despite the latter, all the artists who preformed were appreciative across the board for the support and love they received.

Be sure to check Angel Haze out at angelhazemusic.com and on iTunes, Big K.R.I.T. at bigkrit.com and on iTunes, as well as BRIC as they continue to showcase a variety of programming around Brooklyn at bricartsmedia.org.